Futai-ji

Futai-ji is a Buddhist temple in Nara with a main hall housing a bodhisattva statue at its center, surrounded by five protective figures on all sides. The grounds also include a smaller Shinto shrine, reflecting the site's religious diversity.

The temple was founded in 847 when a member of the imperial family converted a former residence into a religious site. This transformation shows how important families during the Heian period turned their estates into spiritual centers.

The temple grounds blend Buddhist practice with a Shinto shrine, showing how these two traditions coexist in Japanese spiritual life. Walking through the space, you see this peaceful integration firsthand.

The temple sits in a quiet residential area and is accessible on foot, with enough space to explore the grounds at a leisurely pace. Most visitors can experience the site during a short walk without needing to rush.

The founder was a celebrated Heian-era poet, and the grounds still reflect this love of plants through flowering shrubs that bloom at different times of year. This botanical choice honors the artistic legacy of the person who created this place.

Location: Nara

Inception: 847

Founders: Ariwara no Narihira

Part of: 88 svetih mest na severu Jamatoja

Website: http://www3.kcn.ne.jp/~futaiji/english.html

GPS coordinates: 34.69472,135.81248

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00